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Western Tibet, Tibet / Expedition

Gurla Mandhata Expedition

Combine the Kailash and Manasarovar region with a remote expedition on Gurla Mandhata in western Tibet.

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Gurla Mandhata beyond Lake Manasarovar
Gurla Mandhata beyond Lake Manasarovar.
Duration
42 daysOutline programme
Summit objective
7,694 mRoute objective
Season
Spring / AutumnAsk for current dates
Experience
High-altitude expeditionExpedition

A closer look at the journey.

Gurla Mandhata, also called Naimona Nyi, rises south of the lakes of Manasarovar and Rakshastal in western Tibet. The approach crosses the plateau and includes the Kailash region before reaching the mountain base. The remote location and long travel stages make this as much a major expedition journey as a climbing objective.

This programme combines time on the Tibetan plateau with an extended climbing period. Access, permits and the final road route must be agreed before travel. Higher camps, acclimatization rotations and the summit attempt depend on mountain conditions. We plan the support and equipment around the team rather than a fixed summit date.

  • Western Tibetan plateau journey
  • Kailash circuit and Manasarovar region
  • Remote Gurla Mandhata climbing base

The route, day by day.

This is an outline programme. The team will confirm the route and arrangements with you, allowing for weather, access and local conditions.

Day 1-3Kathmandu preparation

Arrive, review equipment and complete expedition and travel arrangements.

Day 4-6Tibet approach and acclimatization

Enter Tibet by the agreed route and allow time to acclimatize on the plateau.

Day 7-10Plateau journey to Kailash

Continue through the Paiku Tso, Saga and Paryang region towards Darchen.

Day 11-13Kailash circuit and Manasarovar

Follow the planned trekking circuit when permitted and conditions allow, then continue towards Manasarovar.

Day 14Gurla Mandhata Base Camp

Travel to the mountain base and organize camp.

Day 15-34Gurla Mandhata climbing period

Acclimatize, establish higher camps and assess the summit route and weather.

Day 35Clear base camp

Pack the expedition equipment and prepare to return.

Day 36-40Return across the plateau

Travel back through western Tibet and the agreed border route to Kathmandu.

Day 41Kathmandu reserve day

Rest and allow for travel delays.

Day 42Departure

Transfer for your onward flight.

A clear plan and quotation.

Request an itemised quotation for your group, dates and preferred level of support. Agree the inclusions before booking travel.

Services to discuss

  • Agree the permit arrangements and in-country transport in your quotation.
  • Agree the guiding, porter support and responsibilities on the mountain.
  • Agree accommodation, camp facilities and the meals provided at each stage.
  • Agree shared climbing equipment, communications and emergency arrangements.

Budget separately

  • International travel, entry documents and costs outside the agreed programme.
  • Personal climbing equipment and insurance appropriate to the itinerary.
  • Personal spending, tips and any separately agreed climbing staff bonuses.
  • Additional accommodation, transport or evacuation costs if plans change.

Before you set out.

Previous high-altitude expeditions, strong glacier and snow climbing skills, and readiness for remote travel and prolonged camping are required.

Accommodation: Hotels during the approach and return, with expedition camps on the mountain.

Use the trip preparation guide to plan equipment, travel documents and questions for the team.

Is the summit attempt on a fixed day?

The itinerary gives a climbing window. Your guide will adjust the attempt, rest days and descent to the conditions and the team. Reaching the summit cannot be guaranteed.

What experience should I discuss before booking?

Previous high-altitude expeditions, strong glacier and snow climbing skills, and readiness for remote travel and prolonged camping are required. Share details of your recent climbs, altitude experience and rope skills so that we can assess the preparation and support required.

Other journeys to explore.

Everest, Lhotse and Makalu catching the last sun, seen from Gokyo Ri

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Bhim PaudelExecutive Director

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